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Remodeling projects often call for moving a door from one location to another. Creating a wall where a doorway used to be is a project you can handle, provided you're not dealing with a load-bearing wall. Armed with some wood studs and plasterboard or drywall, you will be able to cover the opening like a true professional.

Preparing the Space

To cover a doorway with plasterboard, you will need to remove the old door and all related hardware. Start by taking the door off its hinges, then removing the hinges from the door frame. Use a crowbar to pull away molding surrounding the door frame on both sides of the opening. Then you can remove the entire door frame if the door was in a prehung frame. If removing the frame is not an option, then remove the soffit from inside the door jam. The end result should be a bare, smooth opening that is free of molding on all sides.

Choosing the Right Materials

You will need a supply of wood studs. The thickness of the existing wall dictates the size of the studs you will need; expect to use two-by-fours. To determine the size you will need, measure the distance from one side of the wall to the other. Take into account the thickness of the plasterboard you plan on using. For instance, if the opening is 5 inches thick, subtract 1 inch for two pieces of 1/2-inch plasterboard. The remaining 4 inches allows for a two-by-four. Pick the plasterboard and stud configuration that will result in a flush wall on each side.

Covering the Opening

Measure and cut a stud for the top plate and bottom base. Use screws to attach the top plate to the existing door frame. If the floor is wood, use screws to attach the base plate; masonry screws will be needed if the floor is concrete. Use a plum line to ensure the top and bottom plates are lined up with each other. Cut two vertical studs for the left and right side of the opening. Each vertical stud should be cut for a snug fit. Screw each stud to the old door frame. Toe in with nails or screws to attach to the top and bottom plates. The width of the opening will determine the quantity of additional studs. Studs should be placed every 16 inches on center. For a narrow doorway, place at least one stud in the center for support of the plasterboard. Cut plasterboard to size. Use drywall screws to attach the plasterboard to the frame.

Finishing Touches

Complete your project by covering the space between the plasterboard and the existing wall with drywall tape and joint compound. Use a 4-inch putty knife to spread a thin layer of compound over the tape and screw holes. Allow to dry. Lightly sand until smooth. Repeat with a second coat of compound. When dry, sand again until smooth and even with the existing wall. Add base molding on each side of the old door opening to match the existing molding. To hide the fact that an opening was there, install new molding that runs the length of the wall, as opposed to putting a patch piece where the door opening used to be.

About the Author

Thomas Ferraioli began writing in 1993. His work has been featured in national publications like "Parents" and "U.S. Catholic." Ferraioli owns a cleaning service and is a Catholic youth minister. He holds a bachelor's degree in communications and business from Seton Hall University and was a recipient of the Pope John Paul II Award from the Archdiocese of Newark, N.J. for his work with youth.